What is Google Docs?

Google Docs is an online word processing tool. It is similar to Microsoft Word, but documents are stored in the Cloud and no downloads are needed. Documents can be shared with other users, who can edit and comment on them simultaneously from anywhere with an Internet connection. In education, Google Docs have been used for paper writing and project collaboration, sharing handouts, peer feedback on writing, and more. Google Docs can sometimes also refer colloquially to the larger suite of Google web-based services properly called Google Apps (see above).

Some students, faculty and staff might have a Google account for personal use in addition to a Middlebury Google Apps account. The benefits of the Middlebury Google Apps account include the convenience of sharing documents with everyone on a course roster, unlimited storage, assurance that data won't be mined for commercial purposes, and assistance from Middlebury College ITS staff, for example in cases where access to a shared document is lost. See below for advice on how to ensure that you’re using the intended account.

Google Apps Accounts

Do I have a Middlebury Google Apps account?

Yes! As of April 25, 2016 accounts are automatically created for all Middlebury faculty, staff, and students.

How do I get a Middlebury Google Apps account for my class?

Conflicting Accounts

In the past, Middlebury Google Apps accounts were created for classes or individuals by request only. As of April 25, 2016, individual accounts will be created automatically. This may result in what Google refers to as a "Conflicting Account" for those who have been using Google services with an account tied to your Middlebury address but that was not created by ITS.

How can I tell if the account I’m using now is a personal or institutional account?

Try logging out and logging in again. If you enter your Google account password at Google’s login page, that’s a personal stand-alone account and the above considerations apply. If instead you enter your Middlebury e-mail and password at our new login page, that’s an institutional account and you’re all set.

Can I still access Google’s services for my personal use?

You can choose to maintain a separate account for your personal use of any Google services under a non-middlebury.edu address. If you have multiple Google accounts, the username that appears at the upper right corner of most Google services will help you ensure that you’re using the intended account.

Why can't I view a Google Doc that was shared with me?

If you are logged in with a personal Google account, try accessing the document from your Middlebury Google account. If that doesn't work, contact the owner of the document for permission to view.

Google Drive

If you are new to Google Drive:
Google Drive is a place where you can store your files in the cloud. In addition, using Google's Drive File Stream software, you can automatically sync your files between the cloud and your computer or mobile device. Also, Google Drive also allows you to share files with others.
To learn more about Google Drive, see Get Started with Drive.

If you are an existing user of Google Drive:
Have you installed the latest Google Drive software? Google is discontinuing the old Google Drive software and replacing it with two new solutions. Don't worry, your data is safe and the new software has some great new features! For more information, see The Google Drive Software Is Being Replaced.

Why can't my student view a Doc I shared with the class?

Check your Google Apps class list (Groups) to make sure the student is on it. If the student is not on your class list, add them to your class list (Groups) or email gadmin@middlebury and request they be added.

If the student is on your Google Apps class list, it's possible the student is trying to view the Google Doc from a personal Google account, rather than from their Middlebury Google account. You can either share the Doc with their personal account, or request they view the Doc from their Middlebury Google account.

If the student does not remember their Middlebury Google login information, ask them to look for a welcome email with temporary login information, or email gadmin@middlebury.edu.